Thomas Paine

Thomas Paine was an English-American political activist and revolutionary thinker.

Born in England, he emigrated to America in 1774 and became a key figure in the American Revolution.

His pamphlet "Common Sense" greatly influenced the movement for independence.

Paine later participated in the French Revolution, writing "Rights of Man" in defense of revolutionary ideals.

He faced controversy for his criticism of organized religion in "The Age of Reason." Paine's works promoted human rights, reason, and progressive ideas like guaranteed minimum income.

Despite his significant contributions to American independence, he was largely ostracized later in life due to his religious views.